Must Have Shot List: The Images You Don’t Want to Miss Out On!

Planning your wedding photography timeline? One of the best ways to ensure nothing important is missed is by creating a detailed shot list. Whether you’ve been dreaming about your wedding photos for years or you’re just beginning to think about the kind of images you’d love, this guide is here to help. Below, we’ve curated a list of must-have wedding day photos you won’t want to miss—from intimate moments and family formals to all the gorgeous little details. Use this list as inspiration, and feel free to add your own must-haves. Share your customized list with your photographer so we can make sure to capture every meaningful moment of your big day!

The Couple

These are the timeless shots you’ll look back on forever—images that capture the love, excitement, and connection between you and your partner.

• Formal Bridal Portrait

• Formal Groom Portrait

• The First Look (seeing each other for the first time)

• Embracing together

• Walking hand-in-hand

• Holding hands with a shared smile

• A romantic kiss

• Close-up of wedding rings on each partner's hand

Getting Ready Moments

These are the behind-the-scenes memories—the quiet, emotional, and joyful moments before the ceremony begins.

Bride Prep:

• The Flat Lay (invitations, jewelry, shoes, rings, extra florals)

• Bridesmaids in matching robes

• Wedding dress on a hanger

• Hair and makeup shots

• Bride getting into the dress (helped by mom, maid of honor, or both)

• Bride putting on jewelry, garter, and shoes (piece by piece)

• Reading a letter from the groom

Groom Prep:

• Groom adjusting tie or bowtie

• Buttoning jacket

• Putting on cufflinks or shoes

• Reading a letter from the bride

Bridal Party Portraits

Capture the excitement and personality of your wedding crew with both classic and fun group shots.

• Entire bridal party (formal + silly)

• Groomsmen with the groom

• Groomsmen with the bride

• Bridesmaids with the bride

• Bridesmaids with the groom

• Groomsmen + Bridesmaids without the couple

• Silhouette or creative lighting bridal party shot

• Flower girl portrait

• Ring bearer portrait

Family Formals

Family photos are keepsakes for generations to come—these groupings ensure you don’t miss anyone special.

• Extended families together

• Bride’s extended family with the couple

• Groom’s extended family with the couple

• Bride with parents

• Groom with parents

• Couple with both sets of parents

• Bride with grandparents

• Groom with grandparents

• Couple with all grandparents

• Couple with siblings

Ceremony & Reception Details

All the little touches you’ve spent months planning deserve their moment to shine too.

• Ceremony decor (aisle, arch, chairs, programs, signage)

• Reception decor (tablescapes, signage, florals, lighting, favors)

• Close-up of the rings

• Bridal bouquet

• Groom’s boutonniere or bowtie

• Bridal veil details

• Bride’s shoes

• Wedding dress before it’s worn

• Ceremony program

• The wedding cake

• Guestbook or welcome table

Make this list your own—whether you’re prioritizing romantic couple portraits, emotional family moments, or elegant flat lays of your details. And remember: the best photos come when you’re present in the moment, so once the planning is done, let go and enjoy every second. We’ll take care of the rest, one beautiful frame at a time.